How to Create a Custom Hood Pattern- Step-by-Step Guide for Aspiring Designers

How to Draft a Hood Pattern

Drafting a hood pattern is an essential skill for anyone interested in fashion design or garment construction. A well-drafted hood pattern ensures that the hood fits comfortably and complements the overall design of the garment. In this article, we will guide you through the process of drafting a hood pattern, from gathering the necessary measurements to creating the final pattern piece.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the drafting process, it’s crucial to understand the basic components of a hood. A hood consists of a hood opening, hood crown, hood facing, and hood band. The hood opening is the part where the hood attaches to the garment, while the hood crown is the curved part that covers the head. The hood facing is the outer layer of the hood, and the hood band is the elastic or ribbon that secures the hood to the garment.

Gathering Measurements

To draft a hood pattern, you’ll need to gather the following measurements:

1. Head circumference: Measure the circumference of the head where the hood will sit.
2. Hood depth: Measure the distance from the top of the hood opening to the bottom of the hood crown.
3. Hood width: Measure the width of the hood at the widest point of the hood crown.
4. Shoulder width: Measure the distance between the outer edges of the shoulders.

Drafting the Hood Opening

Start by drawing a straight line to represent the garment’s neckline. From the center of this line, measure the head circumference and mark the points on the line. Connect these points to form the hood opening.

Drafting the Hood Crown

To draft the hood crown, draw a curved line that connects the points where the hood opening ends. This curve should follow the natural shape of the head. Measure the hood depth and mark the points on the curve. Connect these points to form the hood crown.

Drafting the Hood Facing

The hood facing is the outer layer of the hood. To draft it, draw a rectangle that is wide enough to cover the hood crown and long enough to reach the desired length. Add seam allowances to the edges of the rectangle.

Drafting the Hood Band

To draft the hood band, measure the shoulder width and add seam allowances. Draw a straight line to represent the hood band, ensuring that it is long enough to wrap around the head and overlap slightly.

Finishing Touches

Once you have drafted all the components of the hood pattern, make sure to check for any errors or inconsistencies. Adjust the pattern as needed to ensure a comfortable fit. You can also add any additional details, such as vents or flaps, to personalize your design.

In conclusion, drafting a hood pattern is a valuable skill that can enhance your fashion design and garment construction abilities. By following these steps and understanding the basic components of a hood, you’ll be well on your way to creating a custom hood pattern that complements your garment design.